Li Tai

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Li Tai (李泰; Pinyin: Lǐ Tài) (618-652) was an imperial prince of the Tang Empire of China. Li was the son of Emperor Taizong of Tang China (his fourth) and Wende Empress (her second). His courtesy name was Huibao (惠褒).

He was made Prince Yidu in Year Wude 3, Prince Wei the next year, and made Prince Wei in Zhenguan 2, and Prince Bu in Zhenguan 21. He was also named Prince of Donglai District and Prince Shunyang.

After his elder brother Crown Prince Li Chengqian fell out of favour with Taizong, Tai was given the position of Governor of Xiang Commandry. However, Tai refused the position and stayed in the capital. Taizong commanded the establishment of a scholar academy in the prince's residence and increased his salary over that of his elder brother. Moreover, Taizong invited Tai to move into Dewu Hall of the imperial palace. Most officials were against these acts.

Li Tai was made the new crown prince after his brother tried to rebel. However, after being made the crown prince, Li Tai tried to hurt Li Chengqian numerous times and exhibited an overwhelming vicious ambition. So Taizong replaced Li Tai with the more popular "virtuous" Li Zhi as the next crown prince. Li Zhi became Emperor Gaozong of Tang China.

The Buddhist statues in the Main Wall of Bingyang South Cave of the Longmen Caves was dedicated by Li Tai to his deceased mother, Gongsun-shi.